Outemu Purple vs. SP-Star RedBlue
An in-depth look at the Outemu Purple and the SP-Star RedBlue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Purple and the SP-Star RedBlue offer unique typing experiences. The purple switch is best known for its tactile feedback, providing a satisfying bump with every keystroke. On the other hand, the RedBlue switch is a linear switch that offers a smooth and consistent typing experience, perfect for those who prefer a lighter touch. While the Purple switch is categorized as 'tactile', the RedBlue switch falls under categories like 'low-pitched', 'neutral', 'mild', 'thocky', and 'polished'. Both switches have their own advantages, making them ideal for different preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
57g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Purple and the SP-Star RedBlue switches, we can see that both switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a rigid plastic that produces a clear and resonant sound when pressed. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for switches intended to be used with RGB lighting. However, the Purple switch features a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the RedBlue switch utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, emphasizing a sharper and crisper sound profile throughout.
While the top housing of both switches shares the characteristics of being made from polycarbonate, the difference in bottom housing material results in distinct sound profiles. The nylon bottom housing of the Purple switch contributes to a deeper and fuller sound, contrasting with the polycarbonate bottom housing of the RedBlue switch, which emphasizes a sharper and crisper sound. When typing on these switches, the bottom-out sound and feel will be influenced by the bottom housing material, highlighting the impact of the softer nylon or the stiffer polycarbonate. On the other hand, the sound produced when releasing a key will be more affected by the qualities of the top housing material, in this case, polycarbonate, in both switches.
In summary, the Outemu Purple and the SP-Star RedBlue switches both utilize polycarbonate for the top housing, resulting in a similar sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile. However, the difference in bottom housing material, nylon for the Purple and polycarbonate for the RedBlue, leads to distinctive sound characteristics when typing on the switches. The nylon bottom housing of the Purple switch produces a deeper and fuller sound, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the RedBlue switch emphasizes a sharper and crisper sound. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on the specific sound profile preferred by the user, whether it be a deeper and fuller sound with the Purple switch or a sharper and crisper sound with the RedBlue switch.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Purple tactile switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, it is clear that the Purple switch has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the unknown force of the RedBlue switch. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the RedBlue switch has a heavier force of 57 grams, while the bottom out force of the Purple switch is not specified. This means that typing on the Purple switch will require a lighter touch to activate the keystroke, while typing on the RedBlue switch will provide a more substantial typing experience due to the heavier bottom out force. Therefore, individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Outemu Purple switch, while those who prefer a more tactile and satisfying typing feel may opt for the SP-Star RedBlue switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Purple tactile switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, we find that both switches have the same travel distance of 4mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either of these switches, the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom will be consistent. As a result, users can expect similar results in terms of key feel and feedback when typing on keyboards that utilize either of these switches. In conclusion, the travel distance of the Outemu Purple tactile switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch is equal, offering a consistent typing experience for users.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star RedBlue has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the RedBlue for $5.40.
The Outemu Purple comes in at $3.10 per 10 switches.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
When it comes to sound, the Outemu Purple tactile switch is not specifically known for a particular sound profile, while the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch is known for its low-pitched and thocky sound. The Purple switch may offer a more variable sound depending on factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used. On the other hand, the RedBlue switch provides a consistent low-pitched and thocky sound, which can be a satisfying and mellow experience for typists.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Purple tactile switch does not have a specific feel associated with it, while the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch is described as mild and polished. The Purple switch may offer a range of tactile feedback depending on user preferences and typing style, whereas the RedBlue switch provides a gentle typing experience with a polished finish for smooth key travel. This polished feel can contribute to a more refined and comfortable typing experience for users.
Overall, the Outemu Purple tactile switch and SP-Star RedBlue linear switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Purple switch may provide a variable sound and tactile feedback, the RedBlue switch offers a consistent low-pitched and thocky sound with a mild and polished feel. Depending on individual preferences, typists may gravitate towards the unique characteristics of each switch for their typing needs. Regardless of the choice, both switches are designed to provide a satisfying typing experience for users.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile typing experience with no bottom out force and a specific sound profile, you may prefer the Outemu Purple switches. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light linear switch with a low-pitched sound profile and a polished feel, the SP-Star RedBlue switches might be more suited to your preferences. Consider your typing style, sound preferences, and desired typing feel when choosing between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches have their own unique features that cater to different preferences, so it's important to prioritize what matters most to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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